Correlation between phenotypes of restriction / modification systems and efficiency of transformation in Campylobacter jejuni

We evaluated the effect of restriction and modification genes expressed in Campylobacter jejuni, a naturally competent organism, on transformation efficiency. Fourteen strains C. jejuni were tested for sensitivity to 29 enzymes. Strains that showed same susceptibility pattern by either agarose gel electrophoresis or PFGE grouped together. Natural between within groups was assessed using two chromosomal markers, one an artificially introduced gene other selected point mutation. However, no correlation found efficiency enzymes tested. The activity system alone could not explain failure occur generation stable clones population with abilities. It is likely factors influence horizontal flow this organism. suggested rule affect flow, based studies transfection E. coli, may apply exchange DNA jejuni.